Automotive Exports September 2020

COVID-19
pandemic
breathes new
life into electric
scooters
The UK Government recently fasttracked
a permit to allow electric
scooter rentals on public roads. The
move forms part of a broader investigation
into greener travel and overcrowding on
public transport as the COVID-19 pandemic
rages, according to GlobalData, a leading
data and analytics company.
Before the pandemic struck, the scooter
industry was facing strong financial
headwinds. Last January, market leader
Lime said it would lay off around 14% of
its workforce (roughly 100 employees) and
shutter operations in 12 markets as it seeks
to become profitable this year. However,
there is now a resurgence of interest in
what is termed active travel (outdoor
transport modes), including electric
scooters, with the rental sector picked for
year-long trials in the UK.
Calum MacRae, Automotive Analyst
at GlobalData, comments: “For those
returning to the office the car may not
be an option due to access or parking
restrictions, and, given the current
situation, many do not feel entirely
comfortable using public transport. Hence,
it is not surprising that electric scooters
and bikes are being seen as less risky for
wary commuters.
“While the benefits of shared scootering
are clear, there are still some issues to
address, including those for governments
and insurers. Who is to blame if an accident
causes injury to a pedestrian or damages
property? Fast-tracked scooter pilots in our
cities is of concern to safety campaigners
too.
“However, interest in sustainable travel
and in micro-mobility solutions for urban
areas – including rentable electric scooters
– has been given a shot in the arm by the
COVID-19 pandemic. The year-long trials in
British cities could give the scooter rental
sector a major long-term boost.”